The National Air and Space Museum commemorates the history of flight and educates and inspires people through its collections, exhibitions, research, and programs related to aviation, space flight, and planetary studies.

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About

The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum maintains the world's largest and most significant collection of aviation and space artifacts, encompassing all aspects of human flight, as well as related works of art and archival materials. It operates two landmark facilities that, together, welcome more than eight million visitors a year, making it the most visited museum in the country. It also is home to the Center for Earth and Planetary Studies.

One Museum, Two Locations
The Museum's two buildings house thousands of artifacts showcased in exhibitions on aviation, space exploration, and planetary science. At both of its locations, the Museum presents programs, educational activities, lectures, and performances that reflect the American spirit, and the innovation, courage, and optimism that have led to triumphs in the history, science and technology of flight. At the Museum in Washington, DC, which opened in 1976 and is located in the heart of the Smithsonian complex in Washington, DC, some of the most awe-inspiring icons of flight are on display. The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, located near Washington Dulles International Airport in Chantilly, Virginia, is a massive structure with open, hangar-like settings that accommodate large aircraft and spacecraft, as well as entire collections of aviation and space artifacts.

Mission Statement
The National Air and Space Museum shall commemorate the national development of aviation and space flight, and will educate and inspire the nation by:

Preserving and displaying aeronautical and space flight equipment and data of historical interest and significance to the progress of aviation and space flight;

Developing educational materials and conducting programs to increase the public's understanding of, and involvement in, the development of aviation and space flight; and

Conducting and disseminating new research in the study of aviation and space flight and their related technologies

Organization and People
The National Air and Space Museum is the largest of 19 museums included in the Smithsonian Institution. The Museum's Director is assisted by three Associate Directors, who oversee Research and Curatorial Affairs; Management and Public Programs; and External Affairs.

History
The Smithsonian's aeronautical collection began in 1876 when a group of kites was acquired from the Chinese Imperial Commission.

Facts and Figures
The National Air and Space Museum welcomes on average eight million people annually, making it the most visited museum complex in the country.

Annual Report
Read a yearly review of what goes on at the Museum, beginning in 2009.

One Museum, Two Locations

Visit our Museum and other popular Smithsonian destinations on the National Mall in Washington, DC, or visit our Udvar-Hazy Center in nearby Chantilly, VA. Spend a few days and see both locations!
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Museum in DC
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Udvar-Hazy Center in VA

Our Research

Our staff conduct ground-breaking research in earth and planetary science and the history of aviation and spaceflight. Learn more about our researchers' work.